NEW 4X4 LAWS NEEDED TO PROTECT PEDESTRIANS AND ENVIRONMENT - BAKER

Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, is today publishing a report calling for changes to the laws governing the sale and use of 4x4 vehicles.

The report's recommendations include :

· Manufacturers and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) to be encouraged to market their 4x4 vehicles responsibly;

· Mandatory display of environmental information signs by showrooms selling 4x4s;

· Introduction of higher brackets of vehicle excise duty for vehicles that produce high levels of carbon dioxide emissions;

· The total banning of bull bars for sale.

Norman Baker said:

"This report follows a tremendous public response to an interview I gave on 4x4s earlier this year.

"4x4s leave a bigger footprint on the environment than other vehicles and can intimidate pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. They are taking up space in town centres where there is precious little room for these giants of the road.

"These recommendations are necessary to protect our children, our environment and our historic towns."

Norman Baker's report can be downloaded from here